May 30, 2025 • 21 mins
Follows the naval adventures of a British officer during the Napoleonic Wars, highlighting his leadership and bravery. The series combines historical context with maritime action.
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Episode Transcript
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Speaker 1 (00:06):
Hold our hands back the quarters. I'm not figure stand by.
Speaker 2 (00:15):
Let's time a better.
Speaker 1 (00:17):
One, Broadside.
Speaker 2 (00:17):
Din't do this to please Captain Bush finds on pocket
ben stup already is that Michael Redgrave ss Forester's indominoo
(00:41):
man of the Sea, Oracio Hornblower.
Speaker 1 (01:51):
It's strange how hard life can be. Well, let's see,
and yet how much a man can approve of it,
even welcome it.
Speaker 3 (02:00):
And several months ago I'd been a country squire, so
a ratio hornblower, in residence with my lovely wife, Lady Barbara,
wearing fashionable clothes, sitting down each meal time to choice foods.
Speaker 1 (02:12):
And yet.
Speaker 3 (02:14):
My conscience troubles me, and saying it, I'd left it
all with no trace of regret. And once aboard the
noun such a commodore, now in command of a squadron
of six.
Speaker 1 (02:24):
Vessels, I felt really alive.
Speaker 3 (02:28):
Not until Brown, my orderly, reminded me that evening of
born home, did I realize I hadn't so much as
touched the delicacy that Lady Barbara had so thoughtfully provided
when we sailed.
Speaker 2 (02:40):
There's cheese, sir, and there's wine, and there's buttering clocks
a ladyship made a special point that the butter would
turn rancied as it was used to on time to supper.
It burn for Belza and Captain Bushes downing with you
as usual, I should think a bit of cheese instead
of ship's biscuit and salt beef for be a welcome child.
There's nothing wrong with biscuits and beef Brown, the good
native air, both of them.
Speaker 1 (03:00):
Oh yes, sir, but you're begging your pardon. A signal
from the raven Sir? What is it?
Speaker 2 (03:06):
She cited? A Swedish vestival at wants to speak at
the commodore. I say, must have someone of importance aboard.
All right, I'll come on deck.
Speaker 1 (03:12):
Ask Captain Bush if you be kind enough to join me,
Sir Brown, Oh what wishall have for supper? Oh? Oh,
suit yourself?
Speaker 3 (03:21):
Brance suit yourself, poor Brown. No sooner had I snapped
at him than I regretted being so busk. Yet, how
could I bother with food? With my mind full of
so many concerns. We've been a month already in the Baltic,
with express orders from the Admiralty to make it as
uncomfortable as possible for Bonapart a show of British strength
(03:45):
was needed. Definitely Russia was neutral, but with all Europe
in Boney's grasp, Russia's help was desperately important. And what
strength had we shown a few small engagements, it would
take more than that to bring the Art to side
with us against Napoleon. As I stood on the quarter
(04:07):
deck beside Captain Bush.
Speaker 1 (04:09):
Waiting for the Swedish vessel to come alongside, I came
near to telling him my doubts and worries. I decided
against it. At least for now.
Speaker 2 (04:19):
There's two often coming aboard. Their quartograms are that first one,
let's say a Swede. I hope he brings some news,
whoever he is. How long has it been since we've
had any Bush, I'd say weeks? Should I? For all
we know, Bonaparte may have already attacked Russia, or Russia
may have given up without a trouble.
Speaker 1 (04:35):
Yes, sir. The second one aboard.
Speaker 2 (04:38):
If there isn't a British uniform, I mustafish it.
Speaker 1 (04:40):
Is a guard's uniform.
Speaker 3 (04:42):
A Colonel Bush, a colonel of the guards here in
the middle of the Baltic Ah. At least he knows
enough of ceremonial to make sure he salutes our quarter deck.
Speaker 2 (05:02):
You are Captain so Horasio Hornbla, Yes, commodore commanding this squad.
Speaker 1 (05:05):
I'm Colonel Lord Witchwood.
Speaker 4 (05:07):
I've dispassed you from our ambassador's Stockholms, and I've also
several of the latest newspapers.
Speaker 1 (05:11):
Newspapers are good. We've been quite short on news, of course. Well,
I'm sure you have. Oh.
Speaker 4 (05:16):
Have you made the acquaintance of Baron Bass. He's a
representative of Sweden.
Speaker 1 (05:22):
He also has some message, gentlemen, forgive me.
Speaker 2 (05:24):
Perhaps the best place for this discussion would be in
my cabin. Captain Bush and I were just about to dine.
Speaker 1 (05:28):
If you'll be good enough to join.
Speaker 3 (05:29):
Us, Well, that table can still post a few small delicacies.
There's cheese stilta I believe, and O'Brien.
Speaker 2 (05:36):
Yes, sir, there's gender also, and smoke mutinham and jamser.
Speaker 3 (05:40):
We'll break it out at once, sir Brown Lord, which
would I notice these newspapers.
Speaker 1 (05:44):
Are in German and Polish?
Speaker 4 (05:46):
Quite so you can translate I Barbara's tips like that
English good enough for Biza and ju Bannon beg.
Speaker 1 (05:53):
Pardon German, I can to some extent, but the Polish
snow Oh, well, we will manage famine Bush.
Speaker 2 (05:58):
Will you pass the word to Mike Clark Saga to
come to my cabinet?
Speaker 1 (06:00):
Six bells.
Speaker 2 (06:01):
He's a film but he's told me that he speaks
all the Baltic languages. This one is the Mechanic's Bag,
(06:26):
a hating citing ratio published under French censorship. Of course,
it reports on a meeting at Dresden. Bonaparte is there
at Dresden, Yes, Bao, go ahead, so and go ahead.
There are nine army corps at Dresden, at Warsaw, at
dancing or.
Speaker 4 (06:42):
Ended russiay de Beer's home bla. How many men would
you say? That meant all the girls?
Speaker 1 (06:47):
You'll be able to calculate that better than I cannot.
Speaker 4 (06:49):
Oh, yes, you're an army man, of course. Oh god,
I share. It might come to a half a million.
Speaker 3 (06:53):
But we here is something so ratio. The Warsaw Gazette
has a long article about Russia.
Speaker 2 (06:59):
I read it.
Speaker 3 (07:00):
It calls Alexander the barbarian ruler of a barbarian people.
Speaker 1 (07:04):
Yeah, thank you, yes, I think that will do for now, Yes, sir,
good night, gentlemen. It's strange one. That's one commodore. He
has hate in his eyes, possibly Baron Bessad.
Speaker 2 (07:17):
However, it goes late and if you and Colonel Witch
would intend going back ashore.
Speaker 4 (07:22):
Commodore Hobler, I don't think we are going as all.
Speaker 1 (07:26):
What's that?
Speaker 4 (07:27):
To put it another way of Baron bessa and I
wish to stay on board the nunside.
Speaker 1 (07:31):
This is a ship of war, Kennel. I'm afraid I'm
a sir, so allow me to.
Speaker 4 (07:36):
Present this dispasser. You will notice it's from His Britannic
Majesty's ambassador to.
Speaker 1 (07:40):
The Court of Stockholm. Let's see, Bonaparte has invaded Swedish Pomerania.
Now this is news. Balm Bessie is Sweden and no
longer neutral.
Speaker 2 (07:54):
There has been no formal declaration of waters, but you
have been invaded.
Speaker 3 (07:58):
Ah, I understand as much still depends on Russia.
Speaker 1 (08:03):
Is that everything depends on Russia. We scarcely could move
along well Badon. That's one reason we are here to
prove to you that you are not alone the batons.
Speaker 4 (08:11):
To a dispatch experience more fullish or horatio.
Speaker 1 (08:13):
Yes, thank you, thankle.
Speaker 2 (08:16):
I am directed and required to enable Lord Wichwood to
open communication with the Russian government.
Speaker 1 (08:22):
So as to assure his.
Speaker 2 (08:23):
Imperial Majesty the c are of the full support by
land and sea of British.
Speaker 1 (08:27):
Forces in the event of war between Russia and France.
Speaker 2 (08:31):
I am further directed to make use of any opportunity
that may present itself to further better.
Speaker 1 (08:37):
Relations with the Russians. Better relations? What's that means a.
Speaker 3 (08:40):
Diplomatic language, Bush, it means bring young t Sara Alexander
into our camp as an ally, exactly.
Speaker 1 (08:46):
Exactly and by whatever means it had better be soon.
Speaker 2 (08:49):
Six hundred thousand of Napoleon's troops massed on our borders,
a short strength that Sweden cannot match. We've got our
own strength, well strength, Captain Bush, six British ships.
Speaker 4 (09:00):
No, no, don't look down your nose is Ambs. Besides
Alexander's the curious fellow, as a mind of his own,
highly emotional, never know what might influence him one way
or the other, might be anything. Oh, no, disrespect to
his Great Eminess, of course.
Speaker 3 (09:13):
Well come at all, Kennel which word this dispatch employs
the words directed and required? Yes, may I point out
that the wording should have been request and advised. An
ambassador cannot give orders to a naval officer. Well, I say, now,
further More, my orders from the Admiralty said nothing about
taking part in politics, politics, important politics, So what could
be more important than to convert Alexander to your.
Speaker 2 (09:35):
Naval officer, not a politician. Still, Sir, if I may
point out something, as there's no need to point it out, Bush,
I know what you're gonna say. The deadly presence of
a British squadron well to eastward and the Baltic could
have a sizeable effect on Alexander. Yes, sir, gentlemen, I
offer you the hospitality of my ship, Captain Bush. Will
you give orders to Walter? Of course, if you please.
(09:57):
Our destination is the Russian port of Kronstats.
Speaker 3 (10:25):
We had arrived in Kronstadt Harbor, but all night long
we lay under the guns of Russian portses.
Speaker 1 (10:31):
I tried to show much more assurance about this whole
queer project than I felt.
Speaker 3 (10:36):
But at least the Russians had returned our entering salute.
The following morning, we had only one visitor, the harbor doctor,
to give us practique.
Speaker 1 (10:45):
I accompanied him to the sick bay and tw indecks.
Speaker 2 (10:48):
No sickness, nor play, no pests, none, Yes, I have
seen for myself only the wounded man.
Speaker 1 (10:54):
His name Lieutenant Mount. Yes, yes, he does very well.
After using.
Speaker 3 (11:05):
Later that morning, the wind began to flow. It was
very light, changing first from one quarter to another. I
have requested which Wood and the Baron and Bush, one
or two of my senior officers to meet me in
my cabin.
Speaker 1 (11:17):
There was much to decide, and one of them, I
think it was Lieutenant Adams, gave voice to what we
all had on our minds.
Speaker 2 (11:23):
Changeable, sir, that's what these Russians art is like the wind, exactly.
Speaker 1 (11:26):
Why we're here, mister Adams. We can do nothing about
the weather. We must do something about the Russians. When
does his majesty arrive on board?
Speaker 2 (11:32):
Exactly incognito, Baron, Remember incognito the cone nor his party.
Speaker 1 (11:37):
Will arrive at seven bells. So we'll be taking on
war from Firewood then, so we will. Bush. I can
give orders to have it thwartill tomorrow. You will have
to serve an elaborate luncheon, Sir Rashe.
Speaker 2 (11:46):
But in mid afternoon absolute with Russians, there must always
be something to eat. The Baron's ride hall blah is
their custom always very well, we'll offer him something to eat.
Speaker 1 (11:55):
Why not?
Speaker 4 (11:55):
Oh a pity that butter yours is turn rancid, you know,
ride you just war blah, Send a party ashore, dig
up some of that cavia stuff and sturgeon all whatever
it is fish these rusk is positively dote.
Speaker 1 (12:07):
On fish, nnel. This is a British ship, my dear fellow.
What's it got to do with it?
Speaker 4 (12:12):
When in Rome?
Speaker 1 (12:12):
Well you know the rest of that one. Yes, yes,
you must make a considerable impression.
Speaker 2 (12:16):
Politic, my dear Hornblower, it would be most politic.
Speaker 1 (12:19):
Shall I put off the water of firewoodson and no bush? No?
But how can we take in water and be in
a fit state for the Czar to come aboard unless
we water the fla first?
Speaker 2 (12:30):
And when I've heard of the Tsar he is a
man of sense, you'll show him the hands at work.
Speaker 1 (12:34):
That's all ship.
Speaker 2 (12:35):
Routine, at work in every quarter of the ship, exactly
kernel between decks and the ringing.
Speaker 1 (12:41):
In the sick bay. That's for food. We'll give him
what we always have, ship's biscuit, pea soup, boiled beef. Oh,
my dear fellows them with Hornblower, I do.
Speaker 2 (12:50):
Believe you must be mad a fenders are in that manner,
he to go over to Bonaparte, which as a wink,
I beg of you last biscuit, pea soup and boiled
beef flowed, which are you've all been recommending if we
put on unnatural airs.
Speaker 1 (13:04):
I don't believe in that kind of assembly. He wants
to see a British ship of war, does he?
Speaker 2 (13:09):
Very well?
Speaker 1 (13:09):
Well?
Speaker 5 (13:09):
He shall, Good afternoon, commodore, armed black and meet you
(13:32):
to present mcconts.
Speaker 2 (13:35):
But doctor no commodore, I hope our little visit does
not discommode you greatly after that away compared to honored
done for the ship, tern Man par present terble on Witchwood,
honored your sir Aaron or net Sir Captain Bush, Master
of Captain Bush.
Speaker 1 (13:53):
Look aboard. It is to prepare the ship for taking
on water and firewood. Mister leconte, if you would care
to see more of the ship, I would in.
Speaker 3 (13:59):
The the gun dexer watch your head say there's a
little clearance for a man of your height. So I
observe we've opened the gun boats to give you a
demonstrations are mister.
Speaker 1 (14:19):
Carlin, if you please well, stations you'll notice the guns.
A loaded blank cannon balls of pressure is not easy
to come by.
Speaker 2 (14:34):
When long its season, I think blank will suffice. Interesting,
most interesting.
Speaker 1 (14:54):
The midshipman's birth, Monsieur le co on this tiny space, Yessir, commodore,
you were once a meeture, been yourself for four years
their in the British Navy. Everyone starts at the bottom.
Four years. You lived four years in a bath like this,
not quite as comfortable as this. I was in a frigate.
Speaker 2 (15:11):
This is a battleship. It's not as crowded. Oh, I
suppose it is necessary. How long have you served?
Speaker 1 (15:17):
I've been in the navy nineteen years? So how long
had your present drink? As commodore? Only two months?
Speaker 3 (15:23):
Nine years before that, as captain six years, lieutenants and
four years as a midshipman.
Speaker 1 (15:27):
Nineteen years? And yet you seem none the worse for it?
So have they been my happiest days of my life,
Monchieur leoku. On it grows late, May I suggest luncheon.
Speaker 3 (15:48):
Now that we were seated in my cabin around the table,
a wave of doubt swept over me.
Speaker 1 (15:52):
Wheeled out, and when I was certain that what I
had done was utterly wrong. I cursed myself for a
headstrong fool. What did the imperial monarch care about life
on bord? A man of war? All he said was incredible, amazing.
Speaker 3 (16:08):
Then Lieutenant Adams reached for the ship's biscuit. He wrapped
it on the table, and I wished with all my
soul that I went dead.
Speaker 1 (16:18):
Why do you do that so this?
Speaker 2 (16:20):
Oh?
Speaker 1 (16:21):
When I was just break continue, mister Adams. We do
that so to get rid of the weevils, the weevils
insect family, Sir, he's knocking them out? Is that that's right?
Speaker 2 (16:31):
Three?
Speaker 1 (16:31):
If you tap gent, did they come out of their record?
Well this way do ca? Sir?
Speaker 4 (16:35):
Yes?
Speaker 1 (16:36):
Yes, I see yeah.
Speaker 2 (16:38):
Bush.
Speaker 1 (16:38):
Will you past Michiella corn the biscuit trap?
Speaker 2 (16:40):
No?
Speaker 1 (16:40):
No, no, thank you? I I think not thank you?
Speaker 2 (16:44):
Ron.
Speaker 1 (16:44):
When the soup, Yes, pea soup, Missilla want in the
British Navy. Pea soup is a tradition.
Speaker 2 (16:52):
Pea soup. Hey, this is extremely good soup. Yes, extremely
I commended to your excellency.
Speaker 3 (17:07):
Well come come brand serve us all his excellency the
minister Baron BASSI.
Speaker 1 (17:11):
I've hudry as a bear this rum. It's very good,
(17:39):
quite strong.
Speaker 2 (17:40):
However, a British Rumia excellency is the life blood of
the neighbor. Sir, does Bonaparte need a reason for invasion.
Speaker 1 (17:47):
He's a tyrant.
Speaker 3 (17:48):
Tyrants make up any excuse or none at all. Now
he controls the entire Baltic coast, as far as the
frontiers of your his, of his Imperial Majesty's domain.
Speaker 2 (17:58):
And now that Prey continue well, I know little of politics,
and what little you know seems.
Speaker 1 (18:04):
To be most important.
Speaker 2 (18:06):
Bonapartey has threatened Russia. There are great decisions to be made.
I understand that the Prince Bernardotte's meeting with desired Pitterfort
at any moments.
Speaker 1 (18:16):
I've heard that too. The Bonaparte's threats are always serious.
His methods are always the same.
Speaker 3 (18:22):
A demand, and then another demand, a concession, and then
another concession, and finally, when the last concession has made
his Poe two weak by them to resistfully, he marches
in and makes.
Speaker 1 (18:31):
An easy conquest. He wishes every nation in bondage to you.
Are very eloquent because I speak from the art, Sir.
Speaker 3 (18:37):
I speak for Lord Richwood and Captain Bush, and Lieutenant
Adams and Lieutenant Carlin. I speak for every British soul
who's fought against this monstrous power, and to what effect
have you fought? Britain is still free, Britain is stritching
that Portugal istly at last sicily too thanks to England.
There is only one way left for Bonaparte to urn.
We've closed him in on the south and the West and.
Speaker 1 (18:58):
The north, and all that is to him is the east,
Imperial Russia.
Speaker 2 (19:04):
You guess the hour strikes, gentlemen. Now I prefers a
toast to the Emperor of all the Russians. Leave Emperor lumderor, gentlemen,
another court, the King of Great Britain. Okay, if you
(19:28):
please pray, my dear colonel, will you refill the glasses? Gentlemen,
if you commodore Horace your Hornblower and the British Royal navyes,
may they join with Mother Russia to defeat the French Pylanti.
Speaker 1 (19:46):
With horsir to that we all drink yes most heartily.
Speaker 2 (20:06):
Ratio Hornblower, starring Michael Redgrave, is based on the novels
by C. S. Foresters. Music composed and conducted by Sydney Torts,
produced by Harry Allen Towers,
Hold our hands back the quarters. I'm not figure stand by.
Speaker 2 (00:15):
Let's time a better.
Speaker 1 (00:17):
One, Broadside.
Speaker 2 (00:17):
Din't do this to please Captain Bush finds on pocket
ben stup already is that Michael Redgrave ss Forester's indominoo
(00:41):
man of the Sea, Oracio Hornblower.
Speaker 1 (01:51):
It's strange how hard life can be. Well, let's see,
and yet how much a man can approve of it,
even welcome it.
Speaker 3 (02:00):
And several months ago I'd been a country squire, so
a ratio hornblower, in residence with my lovely wife, Lady Barbara,
wearing fashionable clothes, sitting down each meal time to choice foods.
Speaker 1 (02:12):
And yet.
Speaker 3 (02:14):
My conscience troubles me, and saying it, I'd left it
all with no trace of regret. And once aboard the
noun such a commodore, now in command of a squadron
of six.
Speaker 1 (02:24):
Vessels, I felt really alive.
Speaker 3 (02:28):
Not until Brown, my orderly, reminded me that evening of
born home, did I realize I hadn't so much as
touched the delicacy that Lady Barbara had so thoughtfully provided
when we sailed.
Speaker 2 (02:40):
There's cheese, sir, and there's wine, and there's buttering clocks
a ladyship made a special point that the butter would
turn rancied as it was used to on time to supper.
It burn for Belza and Captain Bushes downing with you
as usual, I should think a bit of cheese instead
of ship's biscuit and salt beef for be a welcome child.
There's nothing wrong with biscuits and beef Brown, the good
native air, both of them.
Speaker 1 (03:00):
Oh yes, sir, but you're begging your pardon. A signal
from the raven Sir? What is it?
Speaker 2 (03:06):
She cited? A Swedish vestival at wants to speak at
the commodore. I say, must have someone of importance aboard.
All right, I'll come on deck.
Speaker 1 (03:12):
Ask Captain Bush if you be kind enough to join me,
Sir Brown, Oh what wishall have for supper? Oh? Oh,
suit yourself?
Speaker 3 (03:21):
Brance suit yourself, poor Brown. No sooner had I snapped
at him than I regretted being so busk. Yet, how
could I bother with food? With my mind full of
so many concerns. We've been a month already in the Baltic,
with express orders from the Admiralty to make it as
uncomfortable as possible for Bonapart a show of British strength
(03:45):
was needed. Definitely Russia was neutral, but with all Europe
in Boney's grasp, Russia's help was desperately important. And what
strength had we shown a few small engagements, it would
take more than that to bring the Art to side
with us against Napoleon. As I stood on the quarter
(04:07):
deck beside Captain Bush.
Speaker 1 (04:09):
Waiting for the Swedish vessel to come alongside, I came
near to telling him my doubts and worries. I decided
against it. At least for now.
Speaker 2 (04:19):
There's two often coming aboard. Their quartograms are that first one,
let's say a Swede. I hope he brings some news,
whoever he is. How long has it been since we've
had any Bush, I'd say weeks? Should I? For all
we know, Bonaparte may have already attacked Russia, or Russia
may have given up without a trouble.
Speaker 1 (04:35):
Yes, sir. The second one aboard.
Speaker 2 (04:38):
If there isn't a British uniform, I mustafish it.
Speaker 1 (04:40):
Is a guard's uniform.
Speaker 3 (04:42):
A Colonel Bush, a colonel of the guards here in
the middle of the Baltic Ah. At least he knows
enough of ceremonial to make sure he salutes our quarter deck.
Speaker 2 (05:02):
You are Captain so Horasio Hornbla, Yes, commodore commanding this squad.
Speaker 1 (05:05):
I'm Colonel Lord Witchwood.
Speaker 4 (05:07):
I've dispassed you from our ambassador's Stockholms, and I've also
several of the latest newspapers.
Speaker 1 (05:11):
Newspapers are good. We've been quite short on news, of course. Well,
I'm sure you have. Oh.
Speaker 4 (05:16):
Have you made the acquaintance of Baron Bass. He's a
representative of Sweden.
Speaker 1 (05:22):
He also has some message, gentlemen, forgive me.
Speaker 2 (05:24):
Perhaps the best place for this discussion would be in
my cabin. Captain Bush and I were just about to dine.
Speaker 1 (05:28):
If you'll be good enough to join.
Speaker 3 (05:29):
Us, Well, that table can still post a few small delicacies.
There's cheese stilta I believe, and O'Brien.
Speaker 2 (05:36):
Yes, sir, there's gender also, and smoke mutinham and jamser.
Speaker 3 (05:40):
We'll break it out at once, sir Brown Lord, which
would I notice these newspapers.
Speaker 1 (05:44):
Are in German and Polish?
Speaker 4 (05:46):
Quite so you can translate I Barbara's tips like that
English good enough for Biza and ju Bannon beg.
Speaker 1 (05:53):
Pardon German, I can to some extent, but the Polish
snow Oh, well, we will manage famine Bush.
Speaker 2 (05:58):
Will you pass the word to Mike Clark Saga to
come to my cabinet?
Speaker 1 (06:00):
Six bells.
Speaker 2 (06:01):
He's a film but he's told me that he speaks
all the Baltic languages. This one is the Mechanic's Bag,
(06:26):
a hating citing ratio published under French censorship. Of course,
it reports on a meeting at Dresden. Bonaparte is there
at Dresden, Yes, Bao, go ahead, so and go ahead.
There are nine army corps at Dresden, at Warsaw, at
dancing or.
Speaker 4 (06:42):
Ended russiay de Beer's home bla. How many men would
you say? That meant all the girls?
Speaker 1 (06:47):
You'll be able to calculate that better than I cannot.
Speaker 4 (06:49):
Oh, yes, you're an army man, of course. Oh god,
I share. It might come to a half a million.
Speaker 3 (06:53):
But we here is something so ratio. The Warsaw Gazette
has a long article about Russia.
Speaker 2 (06:59):
I read it.
Speaker 3 (07:00):
It calls Alexander the barbarian ruler of a barbarian people.
Speaker 1 (07:04):
Yeah, thank you, yes, I think that will do for now, Yes, sir,
good night, gentlemen. It's strange one. That's one commodore. He
has hate in his eyes, possibly Baron Bessad.
Speaker 2 (07:17):
However, it goes late and if you and Colonel Witch
would intend going back ashore.
Speaker 4 (07:22):
Commodore Hobler, I don't think we are going as all.
Speaker 1 (07:26):
What's that?
Speaker 4 (07:27):
To put it another way of Baron bessa and I
wish to stay on board the nunside.
Speaker 1 (07:31):
This is a ship of war, Kennel. I'm afraid I'm
a sir, so allow me to.
Speaker 4 (07:36):
Present this dispasser. You will notice it's from His Britannic
Majesty's ambassador to.
Speaker 1 (07:40):
The Court of Stockholm. Let's see, Bonaparte has invaded Swedish Pomerania.
Now this is news. Balm Bessie is Sweden and no
longer neutral.
Speaker 2 (07:54):
There has been no formal declaration of waters, but you
have been invaded.
Speaker 3 (07:58):
Ah, I understand as much still depends on Russia.
Speaker 1 (08:03):
Is that everything depends on Russia. We scarcely could move
along well Badon. That's one reason we are here to
prove to you that you are not alone the batons.
Speaker 4 (08:11):
To a dispatch experience more fullish or horatio.
Speaker 1 (08:13):
Yes, thank you, thankle.
Speaker 2 (08:16):
I am directed and required to enable Lord Wichwood to
open communication with the Russian government.
Speaker 1 (08:22):
So as to assure his.
Speaker 2 (08:23):
Imperial Majesty the c are of the full support by
land and sea of British.
Speaker 1 (08:27):
Forces in the event of war between Russia and France.
Speaker 2 (08:31):
I am further directed to make use of any opportunity
that may present itself to further better.
Speaker 1 (08:37):
Relations with the Russians. Better relations? What's that means a.
Speaker 3 (08:40):
Diplomatic language, Bush, it means bring young t Sara Alexander
into our camp as an ally, exactly.
Speaker 1 (08:46):
Exactly and by whatever means it had better be soon.
Speaker 2 (08:49):
Six hundred thousand of Napoleon's troops massed on our borders,
a short strength that Sweden cannot match. We've got our
own strength, well strength, Captain Bush, six British ships.
Speaker 4 (09:00):
No, no, don't look down your nose is Ambs. Besides
Alexander's the curious fellow, as a mind of his own,
highly emotional, never know what might influence him one way
or the other, might be anything. Oh, no, disrespect to
his Great Eminess, of course.
Speaker 3 (09:13):
Well come at all, Kennel which word this dispatch employs
the words directed and required? Yes, may I point out
that the wording should have been request and advised. An
ambassador cannot give orders to a naval officer. Well, I say, now,
further More, my orders from the Admiralty said nothing about
taking part in politics, politics, important politics, So what could
be more important than to convert Alexander to your.
Speaker 2 (09:35):
Naval officer, not a politician. Still, Sir, if I may
point out something, as there's no need to point it out, Bush,
I know what you're gonna say. The deadly presence of
a British squadron well to eastward and the Baltic could
have a sizeable effect on Alexander. Yes, sir, gentlemen, I
offer you the hospitality of my ship, Captain Bush. Will
you give orders to Walter? Of course, if you please.
(09:57):
Our destination is the Russian port of Kronstats.
Speaker 3 (10:25):
We had arrived in Kronstadt Harbor, but all night long
we lay under the guns of Russian portses.
Speaker 1 (10:31):
I tried to show much more assurance about this whole
queer project than I felt.
Speaker 3 (10:36):
But at least the Russians had returned our entering salute.
The following morning, we had only one visitor, the harbor doctor,
to give us practique.
Speaker 1 (10:45):
I accompanied him to the sick bay and tw indecks.
Speaker 2 (10:48):
No sickness, nor play, no pests, none, Yes, I have
seen for myself only the wounded man.
Speaker 1 (10:54):
His name Lieutenant Mount. Yes, yes, he does very well.
After using.
Speaker 3 (11:05):
Later that morning, the wind began to flow. It was
very light, changing first from one quarter to another. I
have requested which Wood and the Baron and Bush, one
or two of my senior officers to meet me in
my cabin.
Speaker 1 (11:17):
There was much to decide, and one of them, I
think it was Lieutenant Adams, gave voice to what we
all had on our minds.
Speaker 2 (11:23):
Changeable, sir, that's what these Russians art is like the wind, exactly.
Speaker 1 (11:26):
Why we're here, mister Adams. We can do nothing about
the weather. We must do something about the Russians. When
does his majesty arrive on board?
Speaker 2 (11:32):
Exactly incognito, Baron, Remember incognito the cone nor his party.
Speaker 1 (11:37):
Will arrive at seven bells. So we'll be taking on
war from Firewood then, so we will. Bush. I can
give orders to have it thwartill tomorrow. You will have
to serve an elaborate luncheon, Sir Rashe.
Speaker 2 (11:46):
But in mid afternoon absolute with Russians, there must always
be something to eat. The Baron's ride hall blah is
their custom always very well, we'll offer him something to eat.
Speaker 1 (11:55):
Why not?
Speaker 4 (11:55):
Oh a pity that butter yours is turn rancid, you know,
ride you just war blah, Send a party ashore, dig
up some of that cavia stuff and sturgeon all whatever
it is fish these rusk is positively dote.
Speaker 1 (12:07):
On fish, nnel. This is a British ship, my dear fellow.
What's it got to do with it?
Speaker 4 (12:12):
When in Rome?
Speaker 1 (12:12):
Well you know the rest of that one. Yes, yes,
you must make a considerable impression.
Speaker 2 (12:16):
Politic, my dear Hornblower, it would be most politic.
Speaker 1 (12:19):
Shall I put off the water of firewoodson and no bush? No?
But how can we take in water and be in
a fit state for the Czar to come aboard unless
we water the fla first?
Speaker 2 (12:30):
And when I've heard of the Tsar he is a
man of sense, you'll show him the hands at work.
Speaker 1 (12:34):
That's all ship.
Speaker 2 (12:35):
Routine, at work in every quarter of the ship, exactly
kernel between decks and the ringing.
Speaker 1 (12:41):
In the sick bay. That's for food. We'll give him
what we always have, ship's biscuit, pea soup, boiled beef. Oh,
my dear fellows them with Hornblower, I do.
Speaker 2 (12:50):
Believe you must be mad a fenders are in that manner,
he to go over to Bonaparte, which as a wink,
I beg of you last biscuit, pea soup and boiled
beef flowed, which are you've all been recommending if we
put on unnatural airs.
Speaker 1 (13:04):
I don't believe in that kind of assembly. He wants
to see a British ship of war, does he?
Speaker 2 (13:09):
Very well?
Speaker 1 (13:09):
Well?
Speaker 5 (13:09):
He shall, Good afternoon, commodore, armed black and meet you
(13:32):
to present mcconts.
Speaker 2 (13:35):
But doctor no commodore, I hope our little visit does
not discommode you greatly after that away compared to honored
done for the ship, tern Man par present terble on Witchwood,
honored your sir Aaron or net Sir Captain Bush, Master
of Captain Bush.
Speaker 1 (13:53):
Look aboard. It is to prepare the ship for taking
on water and firewood. Mister leconte, if you would care
to see more of the ship, I would in.
Speaker 3 (13:59):
The the gun dexer watch your head say there's a
little clearance for a man of your height. So I
observe we've opened the gun boats to give you a
demonstrations are mister.
Speaker 1 (14:19):
Carlin, if you please well, stations you'll notice the guns.
A loaded blank cannon balls of pressure is not easy
to come by.
Speaker 2 (14:34):
When long its season, I think blank will suffice. Interesting,
most interesting.
Speaker 1 (14:54):
The midshipman's birth, Monsieur le co on this tiny space, Yessir, commodore,
you were once a meeture, been yourself for four years
their in the British Navy. Everyone starts at the bottom.
Four years. You lived four years in a bath like this,
not quite as comfortable as this. I was in a frigate.
Speaker 2 (15:11):
This is a battleship. It's not as crowded. Oh, I
suppose it is necessary. How long have you served?
Speaker 1 (15:17):
I've been in the navy nineteen years? So how long
had your present drink? As commodore? Only two months?
Speaker 3 (15:23):
Nine years before that, as captain six years, lieutenants and
four years as a midshipman.
Speaker 1 (15:27):
Nineteen years? And yet you seem none the worse for it?
So have they been my happiest days of my life,
Monchieur leoku. On it grows late, May I suggest luncheon.
Speaker 3 (15:48):
Now that we were seated in my cabin around the table,
a wave of doubt swept over me.
Speaker 1 (15:52):
Wheeled out, and when I was certain that what I
had done was utterly wrong. I cursed myself for a
headstrong fool. What did the imperial monarch care about life
on bord? A man of war? All he said was incredible, amazing.
Speaker 3 (16:08):
Then Lieutenant Adams reached for the ship's biscuit. He wrapped
it on the table, and I wished with all my
soul that I went dead.
Speaker 1 (16:18):
Why do you do that so this?
Speaker 2 (16:20):
Oh?
Speaker 1 (16:21):
When I was just break continue, mister Adams. We do
that so to get rid of the weevils, the weevils
insect family, Sir, he's knocking them out? Is that that's right?
Speaker 2 (16:31):
Three?
Speaker 1 (16:31):
If you tap gent, did they come out of their record?
Well this way do ca? Sir?
Speaker 4 (16:35):
Yes?
Speaker 1 (16:36):
Yes, I see yeah.
Speaker 2 (16:38):
Bush.
Speaker 1 (16:38):
Will you past Michiella corn the biscuit trap?
Speaker 2 (16:40):
No?
Speaker 1 (16:40):
No, no, thank you? I I think not thank you?
Speaker 2 (16:44):
Ron.
Speaker 1 (16:44):
When the soup, Yes, pea soup, Missilla want in the
British Navy. Pea soup is a tradition.
Speaker 2 (16:52):
Pea soup. Hey, this is extremely good soup. Yes, extremely
I commended to your excellency.
Speaker 3 (17:07):
Well come come brand serve us all his excellency the
minister Baron BASSI.
Speaker 1 (17:11):
I've hudry as a bear this rum. It's very good,
(17:39):
quite strong.
Speaker 2 (17:40):
However, a British Rumia excellency is the life blood of
the neighbor. Sir, does Bonaparte need a reason for invasion.
Speaker 1 (17:47):
He's a tyrant.
Speaker 3 (17:48):
Tyrants make up any excuse or none at all. Now
he controls the entire Baltic coast, as far as the
frontiers of your his, of his Imperial Majesty's domain.
Speaker 2 (17:58):
And now that Prey continue well, I know little of politics,
and what little you know seems.
Speaker 1 (18:04):
To be most important.
Speaker 2 (18:06):
Bonapartey has threatened Russia. There are great decisions to be made.
I understand that the Prince Bernardotte's meeting with desired Pitterfort
at any moments.
Speaker 1 (18:16):
I've heard that too. The Bonaparte's threats are always serious.
His methods are always the same.
Speaker 3 (18:22):
A demand, and then another demand, a concession, and then
another concession, and finally, when the last concession has made
his Poe two weak by them to resistfully, he marches
in and makes.
Speaker 1 (18:31):
An easy conquest. He wishes every nation in bondage to you.
Are very eloquent because I speak from the art, Sir.
Speaker 3 (18:37):
I speak for Lord Richwood and Captain Bush, and Lieutenant
Adams and Lieutenant Carlin. I speak for every British soul
who's fought against this monstrous power, and to what effect
have you fought? Britain is still free, Britain is stritching
that Portugal istly at last sicily too thanks to England.
There is only one way left for Bonaparte to urn.
We've closed him in on the south and the West and.
Speaker 1 (18:58):
The north, and all that is to him is the east,
Imperial Russia.
Speaker 2 (19:04):
You guess the hour strikes, gentlemen. Now I prefers a
toast to the Emperor of all the Russians. Leave Emperor lumderor, gentlemen,
another court, the King of Great Britain. Okay, if you
(19:28):
please pray, my dear colonel, will you refill the glasses? Gentlemen,
if you commodore Horace your Hornblower and the British Royal navyes,
may they join with Mother Russia to defeat the French Pylanti.
Speaker 1 (19:46):
With horsir to that we all drink yes most heartily.
Speaker 2 (20:06):
Ratio Hornblower, starring Michael Redgrave, is based on the novels
by C. S. Foresters. Music composed and conducted by Sydney Torts,
produced by Harry Allen Towers,
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